Dean of the School of Advancing Studies, Holly Tapper, spoke with the Star Tribune about Saint Mary’s new FastTrack 90™ program, which offers six online, accelerated bachelor’s degree pathways. Saint Mary’s is part of a growing group of Minnesota universities offering bachelor’s degrees for 90 credits in addition to traditional, 120-credit programs. Tapper explained that the cost savings and opportunity to enter the workforce sooner is very appealing to students who are looking for a nontraditional degree path.
From the Story:
“The degrees are hands-on, with real-world projects and internships built in. As students take classes, they can earn ‘microcredentials’ in smaller, focused subjects. Up to 75% of credits can be transferred from other schools, Tapper said, and students can earn ‘credit for prior learning’ if they demonstrate various skills by assembling a portfolio. FastTrack 90 has been popular. When Saint Mary’s told students in their regular online programs about the pared-down option, about 50% switched over. Soon Saint Mary’s will stop enrolling students in 120-credit online programs that have a 90-credit version, she said.”
Read the full article via The Minnesota Star Tribune.
